Treasure trove of couture creations on display in Paris

March 02, 2013 (France)

Paris, the Mecca of all fashion enthusiasts, has a historical connection with sumptuous haute couture designs, and to further re-establish and celebrate this age-old relationship, an exhibition displaying a lavish treasure trove of couture creations is going to take place from March 3, 2013, onwards in the French capital.

Organized by Swarovski, a brand which has long been associated with Parisian haute couture, the exhibition titled ‘Paris Haute Couture’ will feature over 100 pieces collected from the archives of Parisian fashion history museum Musée Galliera.

Handpicked by the museum's director Olivier Saillard and curator Ann Zazzo, the vintage gowns and dresses have been designed by big fashion houses like Christian Dior, Yves Saint Laurent and Lanvin.

Among the lush exhibits of couture ensembles, the exhibition will include a green velvet gown designed by Charles Frederick Worth for Countess Elisabeth Greffulhe in 1885 and one of the final haute couture pieces by designer Cristóbal Balenciaga before he closed down his couture business in 1968.

In addition to dresses, the event will also display drawings and photographs of some rare heritage couture outfits.

Born in the 19th century, haute couture, which translates to ‘high dressmaking’ in English, is an exclusively French industry, which caters mostly to wealthy affluent classes.

Founded in 1895, Swarovski specializes in a range of cut crystal and related luxury products.